10 Best Things to Do in Koli National Park in Winter

Koli National Park

Things to Do in Koli National Park in Winter

For those looking for an outdoor adventure, snowshoeing allows you to explore untouched areas of the park. Marked trails guide you through the peaceful forests and up gentle hills, offering chances to spot wildlife and appreciate the quiet beauty of winter.

You can rent snow shoes from Koli Nature Centre Ukko to explore yourself, or take a guided snowshoe tour.

With over 60 kilometers of well-maintained trails, cross-country skiing is a great way to explore the park’s winter landscapes. Trails vary in difficulty, catering to both beginners and seasoned skiers.

You can rent equipment from the ski hire shop located at Ukko-Koli’s base station.

Several trails remain accessible during winter for hikers. The Mäkrän polku trail offers a moderate hike with incredible views.

Proper winter gear is essential, as trails can be icy and snow-covered.

While sightings are not guaranteed, the park’s location offers a chance to witness the mesmerizing northern lights – or aurora borealis – on clear, dark nights.

The absence of light pollution allows for better visibility of the northern lights. The best time of year to see them in Koli National Park is from September to March.

Several accommodations and facilities in and around the park offer authentic sauna experiences. After a day of outdoor adventures, relaxing in a warm sauna is the ideal way to wind down.

Our favourite was Koli Freetime, located just a short distance away from Koli National Park. All saunas are next to Lake Valkealampi, allowing for a refreshing dip after your session. During winter, an ice-swimming area is maintained nearby.

There is also the chance to have some Finnish spa treatments in the sauna, including natural salt scrubs and trying out the traditional practice, known as “sauna vihta” or “sauna whisk”. This practise involves bundling together a bunch of fresh birch tree branches and soaking them in lukewarm water. This is then used to gently beat the skin to increase circulation.

Winter’s unique lighting and landscapes make Koli National Park a paradise for photographers.

We hiked to Ukko-Koli for sunrise, the view of the sun rising over the frozen lakes was so special and the perfect opportunity for capturing stunning images. Many famous Finnish paintings have been made of the iconic view over Lake Pielinen.

Just an hour’s drive from Koli National Park, in the town of Nurmes, you can visit the historic Bomba House. It’s a beautiful reconstruction of a traditional Karelian wooden house. This cultural landmark provides insight into the rich traditions and heritage of Karelia, a region known for its deep-rooted folk culture.

The original Bomba House was built in the late 19th century followed by a modern reconstruction completed in the 1970s, which was designed to preserve and celebrate Karelian craftsmanship. Inside, you will find a cultural center that showcases Karelian music, dance, and crafts.

Snow sculpting is a fun winter art form, turning blocks of packed snow into anything you can imagine.

We did this at Kolin Runo where our theme was mythical creatures. This is a great activity to do as a group, family or team building exercise.

Choosing the right accommodation can make your trip even more special. Here are some options to suit every budget.

Luxury: Break Sokos Hotel Koli – accommodation nestled within the picturesque Koli National Park. Perched near the peaks of Koli, the hotel offers breathtaking panoramic views over Lake Pielinen. The hotel features a restaurant, café, bar and a spa area containing indoor pools, outdoor hot tubs, and three different saunas. Break Sokos provides ski-to-door access to the slopes of Ukko-Koli, making it an excellent choice for winter sports enthusiasts.

Mid-Range: Break Sokos Hotel Koli Kylä – a cozy retreat hotel in the heart of Koli village, just outside Koli National Park. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a bar, restaurant, terrace, sauna, and room service.

Budget-Friendly: Koli Freetime – This hostel-style accommodation offers affordable lodging with shared facilities. It’s a great choice for solo travelers or groups looking to experience the park without breaking the bank. The accommodation also features it’s own saunas, jacuzzi and a spot to ice dip.

The park and its surrounding areas offer a variety of dining options to satisfy diverse palates.

While traditional Finnish cuisine is often meat-based, there are options for vegan and vegetarian diners.

How to Get to Koli National Park

Koli National Park is accessible by car, train, and bus.

By Car: From Helsinki, the drive is approximately 500 kilometers and takes about 6-7 hours. The route is well-marked, and during winter, vehicles should be equipped for snowy conditions.

By Train and Bus: You can take a train from Helsinki to Joensuu, which takes around 4.5 hours through a beautiful scenic route.

How Long to Stay in Koli National Park

The ideal length of stay depends on what you want to experience:

Day Trip: You can hike Ukko-Koli, enjoy the views, and visit the visitor center.

2-3 Days: This allows time for skiing, snowshoeing, and exploring different trails.

4+ Days: A longer stay lets you experience multiple activities, relax in a sauna, and fully immerse yourself in all the things to do in Koli National Park in winter. You can also make a day trip to Bomba to see the Karelian wooden houses if you have extra time. If you are looking to venture further afield, Kuopio is just a 2 hours drive away and a great addition to your itinerary. 

Is Koli National Park Worth Visiting?